The tree is decorated. The holiday meal is planned. Now you just need to finish buying — and wrapping — all those gifts. ‘Tis the season to shop until you drop, and Traverse City is ready to ensure your holidays shine bright with a wide variety of stores to satisfy every wish on your list. You’ll find everything you need and even have some fun along the way (maybe with a seasonal tipple in hand) at these area stores.
Shop Small at Traverse City Boutiques
Downtown Traverse City area is known for more than its historic buildings, grand Christmas tree, and twinkling, tree-lined streets: It’s also a holiday shopping hot spot. Whether you’re looking for greenery (I’m Planty AF), stylish women’s clothing (Eleven), eco-friendly textiles (Eelo), candles (Traverse City Candle Co.), baby gifts (Sweet Pea), or locally made, gourmet foodstuffs (Benjamin Twiggs), the neighborhood is sure to make you merry as you locate the perfect gifts for loved ones.
Nearby, the Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a mix of stores, galleries, and restaurants on the grounds of what was formerly the state hospital. You’re certain to find a unique present for even the most hard-to-shop-for person on your list, with everything from local wines and jewelry to home decor and toys available here.
Tip: Don’t stress if you’re in last-minute Christmas shopping mode. Wrap It Up: Downtown Traverse City’s Community Holiday Shopping Night (December 18) is an opportunity to peruse downtown’s incredible selection of stores in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Expect some holiday deals, and don’t forget to visit the donation-based wrapping stations to make sure everything is topped with a bow.
Shop Local at Holiday Markets
Support the artisan community and discover one-of-a-kind presents at one of the holiday market events popping up across town. If art is your thing, the Dennos Museum Center’s Holiday Artist Market (November 7 and 8), is sure to deliver. More than two dozen Michigan artists will be selling handmade ornaments, holiday cards, original artwork and other handcrafted items.
Similarly, the JOY Market: A Holiday Pop-Up (November 15), hosted by Joy Art Collective, features art, ceramics, jewelry, paper goods and more made by women artists and entrepreneurs. The Glen Arbor Holiday Artisan Market (November 29) is a bonanza of handcrafted delights, from home decor to sweet treats. Peruse it all with a festive drink in hand.
Check Off Your List at Area Shopping Centers
Hoping to cross off most of your list all at once and uncover some serious stocking stuffer deals at the same time? The Tower Gallery of Shops at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa features a unique collection of upscale boutiques, with outdoor apparel, baby clothes, toys, Michigan candy and other offerings all in one location. Traverse City’s top thrift shops are another great option, especially if you’re gifting on a budget.
